Sleep apnea is a common yet often undiagnosed sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potential health risks. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the importance of getting tested for sleep apnea.
The most normal way of getting tested for sleep apnea is to go to a sleep lab wherein it is required for a person to sleep all night with electrodes on the head for monitoring brain waves and activities, and see how often a person stops breathing. If confirmed, one has to use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine that pushes air into the lungs while sleeping. Another way of confirming sleep apnea is having a checkup with your family doctor or even on the internet, and have them assess whether or not there is a need to go to the pulmonary doctor.
Sleep apnea can have serious consequences if left untreated. It has been linked to various health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, it can negatively impact cognitive function and increase the risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness.
Treatment options for sleep apnea include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bed. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are commonly used to treat moderate to severe cases of OSA by delivering a constant flow of air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth during sleep.
Recognizing the importance of getting tested for sleep apnea cannot be overstated. Early detection allows for timely intervention and reduces the risk of associated health complications while improving one’s quality of life significantly. Therefore, it is essential for individuals experiencing symptoms such as loud snoring or excessive daytime fatigue to consult a healthcare professional promptly to undergo proper testing and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
Other References:
Symptoms and Causes of Sleep Apnea
Diagnosis and Treatment
Sleep Apnea
